Finding a place to live in State College shouldn't feel like a second major. Whether you're a Penn State student, a grad student, or a family looking for a rental, these five local housing options are worth knowing.
The State College Rental Market at a Glance
State College is a college town through and through, and its rental market reflects that. Demand peaks around the academic calendar, with students, graduate students, professionals, and families all competing for well-located units. Off-campus housing near Penn State ranges from budget-friendly studios to luxury townhomes with resort-style amenities. The best options combine proximity to campus, clear pricing, and responsive management. Local expertise matters here, because neighborhoods, bus routes, and lease cycles can make or break your year.
How We Evaluated These Housing Providers
We looked at service scope, pricing clarity, local fit, and the overall rental experience. For service scope, we considered whether a provider offers student, graduate, and family housing or focuses on a niche. For pricing clarity, we checked how transparently rates and fees are presented. For local fit, we assessed how well each option matches the needs of State College renters, from proximity to campus to community amenities. Each provider stands out in different ways, so you can choose based on what matters most to you.
Here's a quick look at the five housing options in this roundup, with their standout qualities and ideal renters.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| The Apartment Store | Renters who want variety and clear pricing |
| PMI | State College Apartments & Student Housing in State College | Students and families seeking personalized service |
| The Station State College | Students who want a social, amenity-rich community |
| The Yards at Old State | Students seeking luxury cottage-style living |
| State College Collective | Students who want townhome-style living and community |
The 5 State College Housing Options Worth Knowing
#1 The Apartment Store
A screenshot of the The Apartment Store website.
The Apartment Store offers a wide range of State College apartments for rent, from studios to three-bedroom units, both furnished and unfurnished. You'll find properties like Lexington House and Sutton Court with features such as fully equipped kitchens, on-site laundry, fitness centers, and pet-friendly options. Their website makes it easy to browse floor plans and pricing, with rates clearly listed for each unit type. They cater to students, graduate students, and professionals looking for convenience near campus. If you want variety and transparent pricing, this is a strong place to start.
#2 PMI | State College Apartments & Student Housing in State College
A screenshot of the PMI | State College Apartments & Student Housing in State College website.
Property Management, Inc. (PMI) is a local rental agency with years of experience in the State College area. They offer student, graduate, and family housing options, emphasizing personalized service and local expertise. Their website lets you filter by housing type, bedrooms, price, and move-in date, making your search straightforward. PMI is committed to finding the ideal student housing or a perfect home for your family or career. As they put it, 'Better People, Better Results.' If you value a hands-on, locally rooted approach, PMI is worth a close look.
#3 The Station State College
A screenshot of the The Station State College website.
The Station State College is a purpose-built student apartment community designed to help students succeed inside and outside the classroom. They offer one- to five-bedroom floor plans, all with access to amenities like a resort-style pool, fitness center, yoga studio, computer lab, and study rooms. The community is built around student life, with social spaces and academic support. If you want a vibrant, amenity-rich environment close to Penn State, The Station is a solid choice. Their focus is on creating a community where students can thrive.
#4 The Yards at Old State
A screenshot of the The Yards at Old State website.
The Yards at Old State offers cottage-style student housing with multiple levels of space and luxury amenities. You'll find features like a resort-style pool, hot tubs, a rock climbing wall, and tech-equipped study rooms. Units are fully furnished with high-speed internet, smart lock technology, and queen-sized beds. The community is designed for students who want a premium living experience near Penn State. If you're looking for a unique, upscale student lifestyle, The Yards stands out.
#5 State College Collective
A screenshot of the State College Collective website.
State College Collective encompasses five student apartment communities in State College, including Northbrook, Aaron I, Aaron II, Oakwood, and Farmstead. They offer townhome-style apartments with private bedroom suites, in-home laundry, individual leases, and pet-friendly options. Amenities include free parking and bus passes, making it easy to get to campus. The communities are designed for connection and convenience, with a range of floor plans from studios to three-bedroom units. If you want a choice of locations and a community feel, this is a great option.
How to Choose Your State College Housing
Start by deciding what matters most to you: proximity to campus, budget, amenities, or a specific lease term. If you're a student, look for communities with individual leases and roommate matching. If you're a family or professional, prioritize space, parking, and quiet neighborhoods. Always check what's included in the rent, like utilities, internet, and furniture. Visit in person or take a virtual tour to get a feel for the management and maintenance. And don't wait too long, because the best units go fast during peak leasing season.
Streamlining Your Housing Search
You can simplify your search by setting up alerts on rental websites and following local housing providers on social media. Create a checklist of must-haves and compare each option side by side. Use online tools to schedule tours and submit applications. If you're a student, check with your university's off-campus housing office for additional resources. A little organization goes a long way toward finding a place you'll love.
The Bottom Line on State College Housing
State College has no shortage of rental options, but the right fit depends on your lifestyle and needs. Whether you want the personalized service of PMI, the variety of The Apartment Store, the social scene at The Station, the luxury of The Yards, or the community feel of State College Collective, there's something for everyone. Do your research, ask questions, and trust your gut. Your perfect State College home is out there.